Monday, September 10, 2012

There would be NO Hope if it weren't for Jesus

The political season is kicking into high gear and candidates are offering Hope and a Change whether it's their campaign slogan or not.  Trust me on this, that is what they are both trying to sell.  Many of you have either seen or be part of the changes in my life.  In other words, you know me.  I have become more and more dissatisfied with my election options.  Each year brings new promises and each year brings more disappointment.  This is also part of the process of who I have become/ am becoming.  As a man of Faith I am reminded that no matter the promises made by those seeking office, none of them offer the Hope and Change that can only be offered by Jesus Christ.
We are at a point where people cant have a political conversation or debate without someone getting irate.  We have gotten to a point where we are not praying for our leaders the way we should, and are preying on them and their supporters.  This is not how we should behave.  It is okay to get angry about things, but we need to draw a line and not cross it.  So often the debates turn to blatant name calling and nobody wins when that happens.
Looking at history,  Christians have been persecuted for their beliefs and the way they act out their beliefs.  Am I saying "dont vote"? No!  I am saying that regardless of who is elected, as a Christian, I need to pray for him and continue to hold fast to Jesus as my Hope.  I will even go as far as to encourage you to pray, pray, pray about voting, and select the one that best represents your Christian faith!
1Peter 3:15
  But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,

I know we can set apart Christ as Lord and it seems pretty easy, but keep check on that! make sure your humility doesn't become pride.

Always be prepared to answer....yep we got that one!  give a reason for the hope in that you have (or the hope in your heart) that's where we start to slide a little.  We have hope, but if Christ is truly the Lord of our lives our hope should remain in the great hope of Christ (not in man).  Now here is the hardest part, and by the time we get here we are sliding all over the place......Do so with gentleness and respect. You don't have to tell me, I know it's hard to do....but we have got to start doing it!  Yes you can be a fruit inspector(BP) but we need to remain respectful.  If you present your point, leave it at that and don't fuss.  
And if you are looking for Change, look for change in your eternal address.  By accepting Christ as your Lord and Savior, you change your address to being with Him (here and after you leave this earth). 

As always, I am offering to anyone that wants to respond, to lead them in a prayer to accept Jesus as the Lord of their life.  I also offer to pray with you to recommit your life to our Lord.  

Do not let the day end without making a decision for Jesus.

and please pray before you vote.....no matter who you vote for, do so in prayer